The Romance & Rhapsody of Max Bruch

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Max Bruch with "The Romance & Rhapsody of Max Bruch," a captivating collection of his most beloved works. This album, released in 2011 under the Fleur de Son label, showcases Bruch's mastery of the romantic concerto form, offering a rich and varied listening experience that spans just over an hour.

The album opens with Bruch's Violin Concerto No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 44, a stirring piece that highlights the expressive power of the violin. Violinist Jacques Israelievitch delivers a virtuoso performance, ably supported by the St. Christopher Chamber Orchestra. The concerto's three movements—Adagio ma non troppo, Recitative: Allegro moderato, and Finale: Allegro molto—offer a range of moods and tempos, from the introspective to the exhilarating.

Also featured is Bruch's Romance in A Minor, Op. 42, a lyrical and evocative piece that showcases the violin's singing qualities. The album also includes the Adagio Appasionato, Op. 57, a deeply expressive work that highlights Bruch's gift for melody and harmony.

In addition to these violin works, the album also features Bruch's Concerto for Clarinet and Viola in E Minor, Op. 88. This lesser-known work is a gem, with its rich harmonies and intricate interplay between the clarinet and viola. The concerto's three movements—Andante con moto, Allegro moderato, and Allegro molto—offer a satisfying musical journey.

Throughout the album, the performances are top-notch, with each musician bringing their unique talents to the table. The St. Christopher Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Donatas Katkus, provides sensitive and nuanced accompaniment, while soloists Arie Lipsky and Guy Chadash shine in their respective roles. Whether you're a longtime fan of Bruch's music or a newcomer to his works, this album is sure to delight and inspire.

Max Bruch, born in 1838, was a prominent German Romantic composer, violinist, teacher, and conductor whose musical legacy continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Throughout his prolific career, Bruch composed over 200 works, but it is his Violin Concerto No. 1 in G minor that has secured his place in the annals of classical music. This concerto, a staple of the violin repertoire, showcases Bruch's mastery of melody and orchestration, offering a rich and emotive experience for both performers and listeners alike. Bruch's journey in the music world spanned from the influence of Mendelssohn to the dawn of Schoenberg's atonal compositions, reflecting a lifetime dedicated to the evolution of musical expression. Beyond his concertos, Bruch's extensive catalog includes a variety of orchestral, chamber, and choral works, each bearing the hallmark of his distinctive Romantic style. His contributions as a conductor and teacher further cement his influence, making Max Bruch a figure of enduring significance in the classical music landscape.